Democrat Buchwald ousts Castelli

Nov. 7, 2012

David Buchwald / Albert Conte / The Journal News

Robert Castelli

Democrat David Buchwald swept to victory in the race for the 93rd state Assembly District seat on Tuesday, defeating incumbent Republican Robert Castelli, who was seeking his second term.

“I’m very humbled at the support the people of the district have given me,” Buchwald said. “They have expressed their faith that I will go to Albany to fight for them, and that’s what I indend to do.”

Buchwald said Castelli called to concede late last night.

“He was very gracious. I thanked him for his service and we agreed to work for a smooth transition,” Buchwald said.

Castelli could not be reached for comment.

Buchwald, a lawyer, is a member of the White Plains Common Council and chairman of the Metro-North Railroad Commuter Council. He touted his role in cutting costs in the White Plains budget and pushing for more local jobs and said he would bring similar results to his constituents if sent to Albany.

A retired state trooper from Goldens Bridge, Castelli ran on his record, pointing to his support for legislation that resulted in a 2 percent property-tax cap, pension and ethics reform, repeal of the MTA payroll tax and other tax and reform issues.

The two clashed over abortion, same-sex marriage and the Triborough Amendment to the Taylor Law, among other issues, during the campaign.

While Castelli said he was “pro-choice” on abortion rights, Buchwald said the incumbent was inconsistent on the issue.

Buchwald criticized Castelli’s vote against same-sex marriage. Castelli said he supported civil unions. but the bill that became law did not protect religious groups.

Castelli said he is for repealing the Triborough Amendment, which many believe gives unions the upper hand in collective bargaining; Buchwald is against the repeal.

The district, redrawn from the old 89th district, covers Bedford, Harrison, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, New Castle, North Castle, Pound Ridge and part of White Plains.